Joel Michael Grafstein

Robin and I are very happy with Joel’s work representing us in our Chapter 7 bankruptcy process, and are pleased to recommend him to others. We considered bankruptcy because of very substantial credit card and medical debt. He was recommended to us by a local attorney and it became clear in our in...itial consultation that he was knowledgeable and friendly. He answered all of our questions and spent more than an hour with us, setting us much more at ease than when we arrived. We only realized when leaving that this generosity with his time had cost him the better part of his lunch hour! The initial consultation served its’ purpose – it was clear that we should proceed with the bankruptcy and that Joel was the man to do it. During the process, he was careful to explain the information we needed to provide, steps to take and actions to avoid. He gave advice on specific points when we asked and on various topics when he thought it was in our best interest to hear it, whether we had asked for it or not. He took us through the steps and paperwork, explaining the whys and wherefores. He determined the best time to file the petition and both prepared us in advance and supported us during the court hearing. His skill in the field allowed us to receive our discharge promptly and to retain assets important to us – house, car and household effects. His common sense advice about how to avoid getting into financial trouble in the future was delivered with humor and graciousness. Joel was also thorough and adaptable. He responded and helped us when a family matter changed our circumstances late in the process, and has continued to advise us about it even after our discharge. We are also very pleased that the fee for his services quoted in our initial consultation held, despite dealing with the above wrinkle. Finally, he performed a great service by helping to keep what could have been a traumatic episode in our lives in perspective. In one of our meetings he said “there is life after bankruptcy”, and we have found this to be so. In summary, highest ratings and best positive feedback.

I consulted with Joel for over a year prior to filing bankruptcy since my case was very complicated. He met with me and consulted with me the entire period until I filed. All of his advice led up to my being able to file and discharge all of my debt, which was considerable and of various sorts, inc...luding taxes. Without his knoweldge of the intracacies of the bankruptcy code, it could not have been accomplished. I have referred many others to Joel and all have had a similar experience. I certianly recommend him as an expert bankruptcy attorney. And, he happens to be very nice guy, which is always a plus.

In the late 1990's I knew I was in trouble. We were in such trouble that a foreclosure sign went up on the house. This was the end. We contacted Mr Grafstein's office. They could not have been kinder nor more efficient at the time. One of the most calming things Mr Grafstein said to me was "Its ...all about money, not about you". It helped me, personally through. Our initial filing was Ch13 and included us both. It was not a lot of money, less than $35,000 in all but enough to cause constant and unremitting problems; a nut we could not crack. When it became obvious that I would have to go 7 for the business, the refiling and redoing of the papers was handled excellently by the office, with frequent contacts about when to do what, and whom to contact. I hope never to have to experience that feeling of needing to go bankrupt; however, should I, I would highly recommend this attorney and his office. I might add that 10 years out, the State of Connecticut, a participant in the original federal 7 settlement, reared its ugly head looking for settlement from the corporation, now closed since April 2000. Mr. Grafstein has been sure and quick to help.